Jim Holtzman

Makin’ Memories Fishing Charters invites anglers to experience unforgettable Lake Erie fishing charters, targeting trophy Walleye, Yellow Perch, and Steelhead. Known as the Capital of Walleye, Lake Erie offers some of the best fishing places on Lake Erie, where anglers can consistently find large, healthy fish. Captain Jim Holtzman, who has pursued trophy fish since his childhood alongside his father, knows the waters intimately and will guide you to the spots where success is almost guaranteed. Fishing aboard the 30’ Cherokee offshore sportfishing boat, Makin’ Memories, guests enjoy a safe and comfortable experience. With 12’ beams and a spacious deck, the boat accommodates six guests and crew without feeling crowded. Equipped with state-of-the-art fishing and navigation tools, every Lake Erie fishing charter combines comfort, safety, and efficiency, ensuring you spend more time catching fish and less time worrying about logistics. Captain Jim Holtzman’s decades of experience include tales from the era of the legendary Blue Pike, and his deep understanding of Lake Erie’s ecosystem allows him to track the seasonal Walleye migration. With over 60 years of fishing the Great Lakes, he provides insight and guidance that ensures a rewarding trip. Visitors often discover that knowing the best time for Walleye fishing on Lake Erie can make all the difference between an average day and a trophy catch. Makin’ Memories Fishing Charters provides everything you need for a great fishing day, including live bait, lures, rods, reels, and tackle. After your trip, local bait shops can clean and fillet your catch for a small additional fee. Book your adventure today and discover why anglers consider Lake Erie one of the best fishing places on Lake Erie, where incredible Walleye and other species are waiting for you.

EPSG:4269

American Yellow Perch

Lake Erie Perch Are Biting

If it has been a long time since you seen a Lake Erie cooler full of perch like this, and you didn't get a call, text or email from me today.  Its time to reach out to me for details!  440-336-8228 or message me below.

5 people enjoying cruises and fishing in OH

A group of 4 people fishing on a boat in Conneaut

Two people enjoying cruises and fishing in Conneaut

Three anglers with a fishing haul in Conneaut

A group of four people fishing for rainbow trout in Conneaut

Six people enjoying cruises and fishing in OH

Three people enjoying cruises and fishing in Conneaut

Two people on a fishing cruise in Conneaut

4 people standing in Ohio on cruises and fishing trip

Hardhead sea catfish caught while fishing in Conneaut

Three anglers cruising and fishing on the water in OH

Make memories that last a lifetime with Makin’ Memories Fishing Charters in Lake Erie! Book your adventure today and reel in trophy catches, unforgettable moments, and stories you’ll be telling for years.

At Makin’ Memories Fishing Charters in Lake Erie, we specialize in family-friendly fishing trips that bring anglers of all ages together on the water. With expert guidance from Captain Jim, you’ll target some of the lake’s most sought-after species, including trophy Walleye, Yellow Perch, and Steelhead. Whether you’re brand new to fishing or a seasoned angler, every trip is designed to be hands-on, educational, and fun, making it perfect for kids, families, and groups of friends. With decades of local experience, Captain Jim knows the best fishing grounds on Lake Erie and shares proven techniques to maximize your success. From safe, comfortable equipment to all the rods, reels, and bait provided, you can focus entirely on reeling in your catch and making lasting memories. Don’t wait—book your fishing trip today with Makin’ Memories Fishing Charters and enjoy one of the top fishing experiences Lake Erie has to offer.

Find answers to common questions about Lake Erie fishing charters with Makin’ Memories Fishing Charters, covering trip details, what to bring, seasonal species, and everything you need to plan with confidence.

For Captain Jim Fishel, fishing Lake Erie is more than just a career—it’s a lifelong passion. His journey began over three decades ago, when he started sharing his love for chasing Walleye with family and friends. Over the years, that passion grew into a guiding career built on knowledge, patience, and dedication to helping others discover the same joy he found on the water. Guests often remark that Jim’s enthusiasm is contagious, and his ability to make every outing enjoyable is what keeps anglers coming back year after year. Captain Jim’s expertise doesn’t just come from time on the water—it comes from a lifetime of living and breathing Lake Erie’s unique fishery. With over 60 years of experience on the Great Lakes, he has witnessed the changes in fish populations, water conditions, and seasonal patterns. His stories of the legendary Blue Pike and insights into the Walleye migration reflect a deep understanding of the ecosystem that only decades of firsthand knowledge can provide. For visitors, that means more than just a fishing trip—it’s a chance to learn from a true Lake Erie historian and angler. Since 1991, Captain Fishel has partnered with fellow guide Captain Jim Holtzman, combining their knowledge to create one of the most experienced teams on Lake Erie. Together, they bring over 100 years of fishing expertise to every charter, ensuring guests benefit from their shared skills, proven techniques, and dedication to making each outing both educational and enjoyable. Whether teaching the right bait to use, showing how to target feeding fish, or sharing tips from years of success, Captain Jim makes sure every guest feels like part of the crew. About the Boat – Makin’ MemoriesFishing with Makin’ Memories Fishing Charters means stepping aboard a 30’ Cherokee offshore sportfishing boat designed for both comfort and performance. With a wide 12’ beam and spacious deck, the vessel easily accommodates six guests and crew without feeling crowded. Outfitted with advanced navigation systems and top-of-the-line fishing equipment, the boat is built for both safety and success. Every detail is designed so guests can focus on fishing while enjoying a smooth, secure ride across Lake Erie. Whether chasing trophy Walleye, jumbo Yellow Perch, or Steelhead Trout, the Makin’ Memories ensures your time on the water is as enjoyable as it is productive.

Explore top Lake Erie fishing spots in Ohio, known for world-class Walleye, Yellow Perch, and Steelhead action with Makin’ Memories Fishing Charters.

A Lifetime of Experience Guiding Anglers Across Lake Erie’s Waters

Join our 4-hour PM steelhead trolling trip on Lake Erie. Expert guides, hands-on learning, all gear included. Book your afternoon fishing adventure today.

Erie Steelies

Lake Erie Steelhead: Premium Guided Fishing Trip

Join our 8-hour Lake Erie trolling combo targeting walleye and steelhead. Book your guided trip today.

Lake Trolling

Lake Erie Trophy Walleye & Trout Trolling Adventure

Join our 4-hour morning steelhead trolling trip on Lake Erie. Expert guides, all gear included.

AM Steelhead Run

Lake Erie AM Steelhead Fishing with Makin Memories

Book your 8-hour Lake Erie combo fishing trip targeting walleye and yellow perch with Makin Memories.

Erie Bounty

Lake Erie Walleye & Perch: Premium Fishing Trip

Discover the best attractions, activities, and family-friendly experiences in Lake Erie, Ohio. Explore with Makin’ Memories Fishing Charters today!

Lake Adventures

Discover Lake Erie: Top Local Experiences

Join our 7-hour morning walleye trolling trip on Lake Erie. Expert guides, all gear included. Book now!

Morning Bite

Lake Erie AM Walleye Trolling: Top-Rated Trip

Join our 8-hour Lake Erie walleye drifting adventure. Expert guides, all gear included. Book today!

PM Walleye Drift

Lake Erie PM Walleye Drifting Charter Trip

Join our 8-hour guided walleye drifting trip on Lake Erie. Learn proven techniques while targeting trophy fish. Book your morning adventure today.

Erie Walleye

World-Class Lake Erie Walleye Fishing Adventure

Join our 7-hour PM walleye trolling charter on Lake Erie. Expert guides, all gear included.

Walleye Wizards

Lake Erie Walleye Trolling Expert-Guided Trip

Book a 2-hour Lake Erie sunset cruise with expert Captain Jim. Enjoy scenic views and calm waters on this family-friendly boat tour.

Sunset Sails

Lake Erie Sunset Cruise: Expert-Guided Evening Tour

Get clear Ohio fishing license info for Lake Erie. Learn rules, prices, exemptions, and where to buy before your trip with Makin' Memories Fishing Charters.

License FAQs

Ohio Fishing License Rules for Residents and Visitors

Common Questions <h3>What’s included in a Makin' Memories Fishing Charters fishing trip in Lake Erie?</h3>All Lake Erie fishing charters with Makin' Memories include rods, reels, tackle, bait (live, frozen, or artificial depending on the trip), and the expertise of Captain Jim and crew. Safety equipment and all required licenses for the boat are covered, so you just need to bring personal items like food, drinks, sunscreen, and a cooler for your catch. <h3>How much does a full-day fishing charter cost in Lake Erie?</h3>Rates vary depending on the target species and trip duration. A typical full-day Lake Erie fishing charter with Makin' Memories runs 7–8 hours and pricing is based per trip, not per person. Contact Captain Jim directly for up-to-date rates and seasonal specials. <h3>What should I bring on my Lake Erie fishing trip?</h3>Guests should bring weather-appropriate clothing, non-slip shoes, food and drinks for the day, sunscreen, and a valid Ohio or Pennsylvania fishing license depending on the waters being fished. A cooler is also recommended to take your cleaned and filleted fish home. <h3>Do I need to bring my own fishing gear?</h3>No—Makin' Memories Fishing Charters provides all rods, reels, tackle, and bait for every trip. If you prefer to bring your own gear, you’re welcome to, but the equipment provided is tournament-quality and designed for Lake Erie fishing conditions. <h3>Is cleaning and filleting included in the fishing trip?</h3>Fish cleaning and filleting services are not included in the trip but are available locally at nearby bait shops for a small fee. The crew will point you to trusted options so you can take home ready-to-cook fillets. <h3>What is the best time of year to fish in Lake Erie?</h3>Lake Erie offers excellent fishing year-round, but the peak season for trophy Walleye is late spring through summer, while Yellow Perch are best targeted in September and October. Captain Jim and his crew track fish migrations closely to ensure you’re fishing during the most productive times. <h3>What types of trips does Makin' Memories Fishing Charters offer?</h3>Trip options include Walleye trolling trips, Yellow Perch anchored trips, and combo trips for both species depending on the season. Most trips run either in the morning or afternoon, giving anglers flexibility while maximizing bite windows. <h3>Are Makin' Memories fishing charters family-friendly?</h3>Yes—many guests bring children and first-time anglers. The crew specializes in teaching newcomers how to fish and ensuring kids stay engaged and safe. Lake Erie’s Perch trips are especially popular with families due to the steady action and hands-on fishing style. <h3>Do I need a fishing license for a Lake Erie charter?</h3>Yes—every angler age 16 and older must carry a valid fishing license for Ohio or Pennsylvania waters, depending on where the trip takes place. Licenses are easy to purchase online or at local bait shops before your trip. <h3>How do I book a Lake Erie fishing charter with Makin' Memories?</h3>Booking is simple—you can call Captain Jim directly, send a message through the website, or reserve your preferred date online. Early booking is recommended during peak Walleye and Perch seasons, as dates fill quickly.

Discover Lake Erie, Ohio Hotspots For Walleye, Perch, & Steelhead

Best Boat

Great For Novices

Great For Top Anglers

Great Guide

Good with Kids

Best Spots

Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

Authors

Navigate